Airport revamp promises FIFO opportunities: MP

The Member for the South-West Region says plans to upgrade an airport in Manjimup will increase the region's fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) workforce capability.

Nigel Hallett says the expansion and relocation of Manjimup airport will open up new workplace opportunities by allowing mining giants to create flights directly to its mining operations in the Pilbara.

He says that will stop workers from being forced to relocate to Perth or other areas because it is too inconvenient to travel from the south-west.

Mr Hallett says the direct flights to mining operations up north will also reduce the risks associated with fatigue after longer traffic journeys.

"People can actually stay in their towns, they've got a 10 minute drive to the airport and they're on their way and the same when they come home," he said.

Mr Hallett says extending the regional FIFO program to the south-west will benefit the region's economy.

"When we look at the level of wages that it brings back into a town such as Manjimup, the disposable income in the town is a benefit through people upgrading their homes, it's employing extra people in those jobs," he said.